11/21 BOOKED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Shawn Cundiff on Barton County District Court order to arrest and detain for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Joshua Snyder on Ness County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Leanna Oden on Thomas County District Court warrant for Giving a Worthless Check, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Joshua Snyder on Ness County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Leanna Oden on Thomas County District Court warrant for Giving a Worthless Check, after posting a cash bond of $500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/21 BOOKED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Shawn Cundiff on Barton County District Court order to arrest and detain for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Andrew Cain on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Joshua Snyder on Ness County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,500 C/S.BOOKED: Leanna Oden on Thomas County District Court warrant for Giving a Worthless Check, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Joshua Snyder on Ness County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Leanna Oden on Thomas County District Court warrant for Giving a Worthless Check, after posting a cash bond of $500.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (11/21)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Aaron Andrews with MPIRE Realty was present on a chilly and wet Monday afternoon to watch his Trophies to Tables idea come to fruition. Andrews approached Trevor Olsen, co-owner and guide of Kansas Trophy Experience located just south of Great Bend, about donating deer meat to needy families in USD 428. In the first giveaway Monday, approximately 200 pounds of frozen meat were quickly distributed outside Great Bend High School in one-pound packages. Olsen said hunters are pleased to help out.

"We guide people from all over the state," he said. "A lot of guys are from far enough away that they have to fly. If they're lucky enough to harvest a deer, we're always donated some meat."

That meat was generally given to friends or family, or area game wardens donated some of the meat to families in need, but there was never a structure to the giving. That's where Andrews came in. As part of the Trophies to Tables program, Olsen asks hunters to also donate money so the deer meat can be professionally processed by B&amp;B Quality Meats in Larned. He hopes Monday's event was the first of many.

"We still have a bunch of hunters coming," he said. "This is something we tell all our hunters up front and they're all for it. They, too, want to give back not only to our local community but to the kids in the local community."

Olsen said approximately 20 hunters are still scheduled to arrive in the area, and a youth doe hunt in January may provide even more donations. As for the venison itself, Olsen calls it a natural option that is processed like hamburger. 

"It's all preference," he said. "There are certainly going to be some people who don't have a taste for it and don't like it. That's okay. There will be other people who really like it and enjoy it. I tell people they have to give it a try first. It's the same as beef. If you cook straight hamburger and don't do anything with it, it's not going to taste as good as a hamburger with some spices, cheese, bacon, and a bun."

USD 428 Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said the meat was distributed to approximately 40 families. It took only about 10 minutes to distribute the 200 pounds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700575651805.jpeg" alt="Aaron Andrews with MPIRE Realty and USD 428 Board of Education-elect Karen Lindberg were among the volunteers handing out 200 pounds of deer meat in front of Great Bend High School Monday afternoon." />
 <figcaption>Aaron Andrews with MPIRE Realty and USD 428 Board of Education-elect Karen Lindberg were among the volunteers handing out 200 pounds of deer meat in front of Great Bend High School Monday afternoon.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAaron Andrews with MPIRE Realty was present on a chilly and wet Monday afternoon to watch his Trophies to Tables idea come to fruition. Andrews approached Trevor Olsen, co-owner and guide of Kansas Trophy Experience located just south of Great Bend, about donating deer meat to needy families in USD 428. In the first giveaway Monday, approximately 200 pounds of frozen meat were quickly distributed outside Great Bend High School in one-pound packages. Olsen said hunters are pleased to help out."We guide people from all over the state," he said. "A lot of guys are from far enough away that they have to fly. If they're lucky enough to harvest a deer, we're always donated some meat."That meat was generally given to friends or family, or area game wardens donated some of the meat to families in need, but there was never a structure to the giving. That's where Andrews came in. As part of the Trophies to Tables program, Olsen asks hunters to also donate money so the deer meat can be professionally processed by B&amp;B Quality Meats in Larned. He hopes Monday's event was the first of many."We still have a bunch of hunters coming," he said. "This is something we tell all our hunters up front and they're all for it. They, too, want to give back not only to our local community but to the kids in the local community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700575733386.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Olsen said approximately 20 hunters are still scheduled to arrive in the area, and a youth doe hunt in January may provide even more donations. As for the venison itself, Olsen calls it a natural option that is processed like hamburger. "It's all preference," he said. "There are certainly going to be some people who don't have a taste for it and don't like it. That's okay. There will be other people who really like it and enjoy it. I tell people they have to give it a try first. It's the same as beef. If you cook straight hamburger and don't do anything with it, it's not going to taste as good as a hamburger with some spices, cheese, bacon, and a bun."USD 428 Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said the meat was distributed to approximately 40 families. It took only about 10 minutes to distribute the 200 pounds.

USD 428 gives away 200 pounds of deer meat in minutes

Today Sunny, with a high near 64. Southwest wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 31. South-southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west after midnight.

Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. North-northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming northeast 13 to 18 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Thursday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 24. Northeast wind 14 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Friday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 35. Northeast wind 15 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Friday Night A 20-percent chance of snow after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22.

Saturday Snow likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 31. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Saturday Night Snow likely, mainly before 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of snow before 7 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 36.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 15.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 41.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 20.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 46.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 64. Southwest wind 5 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 31. South-southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west after midnight.Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. North-northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming northeast 13 to 18 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Thursday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 24. Northeast wind 14 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Friday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 35. Northeast wind 15 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Friday Night A 20-percent chance of snow after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22.Saturday Snow likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 31. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Saturday Night Snow likely, mainly before 7 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Sunday A 20-percent chance of snow before 7 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 36.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 15.Monday Sunny, with a high near 41.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 20.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 46.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Governor Laura Kelly announced that nearly $15 million in federal grants have been awarded to 65 crime victims and survivor services organizations. Two Barton County entities were included in the grants. 

The funding is provided by the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance grant program to increase access to justice, to support crime victims and individuals impacted by the justice system, and to strengthen community safety.

“Crime victims and survivor services are critical to the well-being of impacted Kansans,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “This funding ensures these organizations can continue providing services to get victims and survivors the support and justice they deserve.”

VOCA grants support the emotional, psychological, and physical needs of crime victims and survivors through direct services. Services include court advocacy and criminal justice support, provided by law enforcement agencies and prosecutors’ offices; crisis counseling, provided by sexual assault crisis centers and mental health centers; forensic interviews, provided by children’s advocacy centers; and shelter, transportation, and transitional housing, provided by domestic violence programs.&nbsp;

Among the award recipients were... Barton County Attorney's Office - $47,944 Family Crisis Center (Barton County) - $335,927

Governor Laura Kelly announced that nearly $15 million in federal grants have been awarded to 65 crime victims and survivor services organizations. Two Barton County entities were included in the grants. The funding is provided by the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance grant program to increase access to justice, to support crime victims and individuals impacted by the justice system, and to strengthen community safety.“Crime victims and survivor services are critical to the well-being of impacted Kansans,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “This funding ensures these organizations can continue providing services to get victims and survivors the support and justice they deserve.”VOCA grants support the emotional, psychological, and physical needs of crime victims and survivors through direct services. Services include court advocacy and criminal justice support, provided by law enforcement agencies and prosecutors’ offices; crisis counseling, provided by sexual assault crisis centers and mental health centers; forensic interviews, provided by children’s advocacy centers; and shelter, transportation, and transitional housing, provided by domestic violence programs.&nbsp;A total of $14,952,784 was awarded.Among the award recipients were... Barton County Attorney's Office - $47,944 Family Crisis Center (Barton County) - $335,927

Nearly $15M for crime victim assistance agencies; Barton Co. included

Join the Kansas Wetlands Education Center staff in celebrating the Christmas season with a Holiday Open House from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 2.

The KWEC gift store is stocked with perfect gift selections for any nature enthusiast. Visitors can take advantage of a 40 percent discount on one item, excluding consignment items. Find the hidden Christmas Goose and be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift certificate.

This year, visitors can decorate bird-shaped sugar cookies to resemble the birds that visit Cheyenne Bottoms. Participants can also build a unique nature ornament to take home.

No registration is required for this free, family-friendly event. Kickstart your holiday spirit with a visit to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2aNIeZS-2B4-2BIyzaQbuh7JNME-qtg_-2BCRF-2BJtV2-2F17QYmGOIw5uPGMV9jh81EI2Jy8QpRPJ2XzYwIZ5vwLyd5HN3Eo3-2F4P1Ap8fn0t39eC1GIEQ1Ow4jU8iZkhCNmQEuMIByI3oKcFq-2FNrFhOVB9x-2FlxArKZHxCQF2Ou-2FassthrczYgT1O-2BdxfMdpl0-2Fmjwn2VbyYy-2BMIIsHtnCywNeaZ1-2B4b6wr0c122SPNYFUxywvIETLUOBz3mUNjWrUmACw1gdOnqdqkXxok5O-2Byc20ysc1EaXp-2FpV9SNCEjDqzYy-2BqlxOgkysN61ACaKUKVGOYD46E-2Fb3KCtWj9iW3RX5o65Qg5NkbkU-2FhrL85oE2FRlR7b1XjvfNF-2BrbEjv0cjSPUUbAKNltplkqCN93T80eGLkhEbiQnuhcs-2BnR7fRlDtYTtdJ7AAKpMw-3D-3D" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.

The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms, 592 NE K-156 Hwy., Great Bend, KS 67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700499077525.jpeg" alt="The KWEC will host their annual Holiday Open House on Dec. 2, with crafts, refreshments, and gift store promotions." />
 <figcaption>The KWEC will host their annual Holiday Open House on Dec. 2, with crafts, refreshments, and gift store promotions.</figcaption>
 </figure>Join the Kansas Wetlands Education Center staff in celebrating the Christmas season with a Holiday Open House from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 2.The KWEC gift store is stocked with perfect gift selections for any nature enthusiast. Visitors can take advantage of a 40 percent discount on one item, excluding consignment items. Find the hidden Christmas Goose and be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift certificate.This year, visitors can decorate bird-shaped sugar cookies to resemble the birds that visit Cheyenne Bottoms. Participants can also build a unique nature ornament to take home.No registration is required for this free, family-friendly event. Kickstart your holiday spirit with a visit to the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2aNIeZS-2B4-2BIyzaQbuh7JNME-qtg_-2BCRF-2BJtV2-2F17QYmGOIw5uPGMV9jh81EI2Jy8QpRPJ2XzYwIZ5vwLyd5HN3Eo3-2F4P1Ap8fn0t39eC1GIEQ1Ow4jU8iZkhCNmQEuMIByI3oKcFq-2FNrFhOVB9x-2FlxArKZHxCQF2Ou-2FassthrczYgT1O-2BdxfMdpl0-2Fmjwn2VbyYy-2BMIIsHtnCywNeaZ1-2B4b6wr0c122SPNYFUxywvIETLUOBz3mUNjWrUmACw1gdOnqdqkXxok5O-2Byc20ysc1EaXp-2FpV9SNCEjDqzYy-2BqlxOgkysN61ACaKUKVGOYD46E-2Fb3KCtWj9iW3RX5o65Qg5NkbkU-2FhrL85oE2FRlR7b1XjvfNF-2BrbEjv0cjSPUUbAKNltplkqCN93T80eGLkhEbiQnuhcs-2BnR7fRlDtYTtdJ7AAKpMw-3D-3D" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms, 592 NE K-156 Hwy., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center’s Holiday Open House

One hundred people in a room, each giving $100 four times a year. That's at least $10,000 handed out to area non-profits each quarter. Earlier this month, the 100+ People Who Care Barton County gave the Barton County Fair an early Christmas present with this quarter's donation. Fair Association Executive Board Member Troy Miller called it a blessing.

"It was exciting and it was wonderful," he said. "We weren't expecting it right away. I know it brought tears to some of the people's eyes on the board because we're all volunteers and we all work very hard to keep the fair going and keep it alive."

The Barton County Fair Board already owned and leased the Expo III building. In June, the Great Bend City Council authorized the board to lease Expo I and II. Miller said the $10,000 will likely be used to purchase tables and chairs to be used in the buildings.

"We're constantly trying to rent the buildings, and the tables and chairs will help create income," he said. "It will also help during the fair. We spend about $1,800 every year renting tables and chairs. This is just a huge blessing."

Julie Mazouch helped create the 100+ People Who Care Barton County group in 2017. The group selects a different non-profit to support each quarter and has now given away nearly a quarter of a million dollars. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700501379172.jpeg" alt="The 100+ People Who Care Barton County give $10,000 to an area non-profit each quarter. This quarter's recipient is the Barton County Fair." />
 <figcaption>The 100+ People Who Care Barton County give $10,000 to an area non-profit each quarter. This quarter's recipient is the Barton County Fair.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOne hundred people in a room, each giving $100 four times a year. That's at least $10,000 handed out to area non-profits each quarter. Earlier this month, the 100+ People Who Care Barton County gave the Barton County Fair an early Christmas present with this quarter's donation. Fair Association Executive Board Member Troy Miller called it a blessing."It was exciting and it was wonderful," he said. "We weren't expecting it right away. I know it brought tears to some of the people's eyes on the board because we're all volunteers and we all work very hard to keep the fair going and keep it alive."The Barton County Fair Board already owned and leased the Expo III building. In June, the Great Bend City Council authorized the board to lease Expo I and II. Miller said the $10,000 will likely be used to purchase tables and chairs to be used in the buildings."We're constantly trying to rent the buildings, and the tables and chairs will help create income," he said. "It will also help during the fair. We spend about $1,800 every year renting tables and chairs. This is just a huge blessing."Julie Mazouch helped create the 100+ People Who Care Barton County group in 2017. The group selects a different non-profit to support each quarter and has now given away nearly a quarter of a million dollars.

100 People Who Care gives $10,000 to Barton Co. Fair

The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced their 2023 youth outdoor soccer girls champions.

K-1st&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Just Kickin It Coach: Jessica Bernard Roster: Luxe Wells, Briar Stryker, Azalea Bernard, Cassandra Gutierrez, Joanna Beaverson, Tayla Broeckelman, Josie Guthrie, Lynnex Gatton

2nd-3rd&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: The Crushers Coach: Trina Smith Roster: Macey Wells, Mila Ortiz, Trinity Smith, Hope Bosley, Grace Ferguson, Raya Haney, Zairalyn Immediato

4th-5th&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Silver Bullets Coach: Jose Enriquez Roster: Kimberly Enriquez, Kayla Alvarez, Andrea Garcia, Lennon Koelsch, Ellie Bretz, Summer Linenberger

6th-8th&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Hot Shots Coach: Kaito Richter Roster: Dentri Ellis, Aileen Escobedo, Alaynah Luna, Jayleen Valles, Samantha Escobedo, Princessly Amendariz

The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced their 2023 youth outdoor soccer girls champions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700497018462.jpeg" alt="Just Kickin It" />
 <figcaption>Just Kickin It</figcaption>
 </figure>K-1st&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Just Kickin It Coach: Jessica Bernard Roster: Luxe Wells, Briar Stryker, Azalea Bernard, Cassandra Gutierrez, Joanna Beaverson, Tayla Broeckelman, Josie Guthrie, Lynnex Gatton<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700497042694.jpeg" alt="The Crushers" />
 <figcaption>The Crushers</figcaption>
 </figure>2nd-3rd&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: The Crushers Coach: Trina Smith Roster: Macey Wells, Mila Ortiz, Trinity Smith, Hope Bosley, Grace Ferguson, Raya Haney, Zairalyn Immediato<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700497063077.jpeg" alt="Silver Bullets" />
 <figcaption>Silver Bullets</figcaption>
 </figure>4th-5th&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Silver Bullets Coach: Jose Enriquez Roster: Kimberly Enriquez, Kayla Alvarez, Andrea Garcia, Lennon Koelsch, Ellie Bretz, Summer Linenberger<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700497080717.jpeg" alt="Hot Shots" />
 <figcaption>Hot Shots</figcaption>
 </figure>6th-8th&nbsp;Grade Girls Team: Hot Shots Coach: Kaito Richter Roster: Dentri Ellis, Aileen Escobedo, Alaynah Luna, Jayleen Valles, Samantha Escobedo, Princessly Amendariz

📷Great Bend Rec youth outdoor soccer champions (girls)

Thanksgiving is around the corner and you’ve likely experienced a range of emotions planning for the holiday. Maybe you’re excited to see family, relieved to have a day off work, or maybe you’re stressed about how much food you’ve got to prepare. Despite the good or bad feelings related to Turkey Day, have you pondered the original name of the holiday itself, “Thanksgiving?”

Thanksgiving is rooted in the tradition of autumn harvest festivals. It has been celebrated for centuries, and George Washington made it an official holiday. He proclaimed that the people of the United States observe "a day of public thanksgiving and prayer."

As you prepare for the big day, I challenge you to remember the origin of the holiday: gratitude. Gratitude is the readiness to show appreciation and to return kindness. Research has found that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed. In fact, a study showed that people who wrote one letter of thanksgiving for three weeks reported better mental health up to three months after the exercise ended. When people focus on the good in their lives, they tend to ruminate less on their negative experiences. Gratitude not only reduces the risk of depression, but it lowers stress which is a top cause of chronic illnesses including high blood pressure and heart disease.

As you can see, gratitude improves both mental and physical condition. If you’re interested in practicing gratitude for Thanksgiving and beyond, here are a few ways to make it routine:

· Recall three good things that happen to you each day. This may be a fun habit for you and your kids as you tuck them in at night!

· Keep a gratitude journal. Jotting down things you are grateful for is likely to change your perspective. You might see more positivity in the world around you. Looking through the pages of blessings in your life after a tough day may also be especially handy.

· Use your phone for good. We all find ourselves tied to our smart devices, so make it a priority to send a few “thank you” texts per week.

· Be self-aware of complaining. It’s easy to get drawn into a cycle of negativity when things aren’t going your way. To combat this habit, every time you complain, try to find the silver lining. When you can find the good in every situation, there is less room to fixate on the negatives of life.

Regardless of how you decide to practice gratitude, I encourage you to try it. Joshua Brown, a doctor of psychological science said it best, “Much of our time and energy is spent pursuing things we currently don’t have. Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do.”

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanksgiving is around the corner and you’ve likely experienced a range of emotions planning for the holiday. Maybe you’re excited to see family, relieved to have a day off work, or maybe you’re stressed about how much food you’ve got to prepare. Despite the good or bad feelings related to Turkey Day, have you pondered the original name of the holiday itself, “Thanksgiving?”Thanksgiving is rooted in the tradition of autumn harvest festivals. It has been celebrated for centuries, and George Washington made it an official holiday. He proclaimed that the people of the United States observe "a day of public thanksgiving and prayer."As you prepare for the big day, I challenge you to remember the origin of the holiday: gratitude. Gratitude is the readiness to show appreciation and to return kindness. Research has found that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier and less depressed. In fact, a study showed that people who wrote one letter of thanksgiving for three weeks reported better mental health up to three months after the exercise ended. When people focus on the good in their lives, they tend to ruminate less on their negative experiences. Gratitude not only reduces the risk of depression, but it lowers stress which is a top cause of chronic illnesses including high blood pressure and heart disease.As you can see, gratitude improves both mental and physical condition. If you’re interested in practicing gratitude for Thanksgiving and beyond, here are a few ways to make it routine:· Recall three good things that happen to you each day. This may be a fun habit for you and your kids as you tuck them in at night!· Keep a gratitude journal. Jotting down things you are grateful for is likely to change your perspective. You might see more positivity in the world around you. Looking through the pages of blessings in your life after a tough day may also be especially handy.· Use your phone for good. We all find ourselves tied to our smart devices, so make it a priority to send a few “thank you” texts per week.· Be self-aware of complaining. It’s easy to get drawn into a cycle of negativity when things aren’t going your way. To combat this habit, every time you complain, try to find the silver lining. When you can find the good in every situation, there is less room to fixate on the negatives of life.Regardless of how you decide to practice gratitude, I encourage you to try it. Joshua Brown, a doctor of psychological science said it best, “Much of our time and energy is spent pursuing things we currently don’t have. Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do.”Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Thanksgiving - A day of gratitude

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

As part of the quality of life sales tax initiative, the project that
received the third most votes in a survey was to add lighting to the walking
path at Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend. The Great Bend City Council
approved a motion Monday for $66,060 from various vendors to complete the project.


Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said careful thought was given to the
placement of the lights knowing that there are nearby houses to the north of
the park.


"Anything along these houses, there's actually an accessory that's called a house shield," said Burns. "It's going to limit the light that goes back towards those houses. We have nine of those with the house shield. The light behind that will probably take it from 20 feet down to five feet."

The project will purchase 20 light poles, each 20' tall. The approximate
distance between poles on the north side is 200'. Some city staff will be
helping with the project to reduce costs that would include gluing pipe and
pulling wire. The proposal includes additional costs to complete the project
that include glue and miscellaneous parts and equipment that will not exceed
$4,000.


The project is funded through the .15% quality of life sales tax.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700548366614.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAs part of the quality of life sales tax initiative, the project that
received the third most votes in a survey was to add lighting to the walking
path at Veterans Memorial Park in Great Bend. The Great Bend City Council
approved a motion Monday for $66,060 from various vendors to complete the project.
Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said careful thought was given to the
placement of the lights knowing that there are nearby houses to the north of
the park.
"Anything along these houses, there's actually an accessory that's called a house shield," said Burns. "It's going to limit the light that goes back towards those houses. We have nine of those with the house shield. The light behind that will probably take it from 20 feet down to five feet."The project will purchase 20 light poles, each 20' tall. The approximate
distance between poles on the north side is 200'. Some city staff will be
helping with the project to reduce costs that would include gluing pipe and
pulling wire. The proposal includes additional costs to complete the project
that include glue and miscellaneous parts and equipment that will not exceed
$4,000.
The project is funded through the .15% quality of life sales tax.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend approves Vets Park revamped lighting proposal 

Barton County officials cannot comment on personnel matters, but they have confirmed that Amy Boxberger is no longer the director at Central Kansas Community Corrections. The Barton County Commission held a special meeting last Friday afternoon. The only agenda item was an executive session, for which non-elected personnel matters would be discussed.

County Administrator Matt Patzner did say the county's plan with Community Corrections is to remain in contact with the Kansas Department of Corrections for guidance and to make every effort to fully staff the department.

Boxberger began with CKCC as an intern in 1996, then was hired as an Intensive Supervision Officers I/Day Reporting Officer in September 1997. After serving as a period as interim director, she was officially named CKCC Director in February 2006.

Central Kansas Community Corrections serves the 20th Judicial District in Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell, and Stafford counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692296570296.jpeg" alt="Former Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Amy Boxberger at a Barton County Commission meeting in March." />
 <figcaption>Former Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Amy Boxberger at a Barton County Commission meeting in March.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostBarton County officials cannot comment on personnel matters, but they have confirmed that Amy Boxberger is no longer the director at Central Kansas Community Corrections. The Barton County Commission held a special meeting last Friday afternoon. The only agenda item was an executive session, for which non-elected personnel matters would be discussed.County Administrator Matt Patzner did say the county's plan with Community Corrections is to remain in contact with the Kansas Department of Corrections for guidance and to make every effort to fully staff the department.Boxberger began with CKCC as an intern in 1996, then was hired as an Intensive Supervision Officers I/Day Reporting Officer in September 1997. After serving as a period as interim director, she was officially named CKCC Director in February 2006.Central Kansas Community Corrections serves the 20th Judicial District in Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell, and Stafford counties.

Boxberger out as Central KS Community Corrections director

Government entities do it every year: send out thousands of pieces of mail at the same time. The Barton County Clerk's Office now sends out revenue-neutral paperwork each year. The Barton County Treasurer's Office is getting ready to mail tens of thousands of tax statements. Treasurer Jim Jordan said it's too much for a small office to handle.

"We have a printer that can print 11 pages per minute, and we have one that can print 15 pages per minute," he said. "You can do the math. We do 30,000 for real estate and oil. That doesn't include state-assessed, gas, personal property, trucks. I think we print another 6,000 in-house that we don't send to the printers. That takes us eight hours."

The treasurer's office seeks bids for the print project each year, usually choosing Iowa-based The Master's Touch, LLC. According to that company's webpage, their machines can print up to 30,000 envelopes per hour. Farming out the work actually saves the county money.

"Then you have to fold them, stuff them," Jordan said. "It costs us 61 cents to send them out, whereas in-house, it costs us $2.60 because of labor costs. Labor, envelope, ink: it's just a costly deal."

Jordan said his staff gets about two days of rest before the back side of the process begins. A machine in the treasurer's office opens each envelope and the work begins.

"Then all the mail comes back in from everybody paying their taxes," said Jordan. "We have to have that mail put in by Dec. 31. Otherwise, we have to carry it over and write down every check, every dollar amount."

This year's statements will give residents the opportunity to opt-in for digital statements next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575928088086.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGovernment entities do it every year: send out thousands of pieces of mail at the same time. The Barton County Clerk's Office now sends out revenue-neutral paperwork each year. The Barton County Treasurer's Office is getting ready to mail tens of thousands of tax statements. Treasurer Jim Jordan said it's too much for a small office to handle."We have a printer that can print 11 pages per minute, and we have one that can print 15 pages per minute," he said. "You can do the math. We do 30,000 for real estate and oil. That doesn't include state-assessed, gas, personal property, trucks. I think we print another 6,000 in-house that we don't send to the printers. That takes us eight hours."The treasurer's office seeks bids for the print project each year, usually choosing Iowa-based The Master's Touch, LLC. According to that company's webpage, their machines can print up to 30,000 envelopes per hour. Farming out the work actually saves the county money."Then you have to fold them, stuff them," Jordan said. "It costs us 61 cents to send them out, whereas in-house, it costs us $2.60 because of labor costs. Labor, envelope, ink: it's just a costly deal."Jordan said his staff gets about two days of rest before the back side of the process begins. A machine in the treasurer's office opens each envelope and the work begins."Then all the mail comes back in from everybody paying their taxes," said Jordan. "We have to have that mail put in by Dec. 31. Otherwise, we have to carry it over and write down every check, every dollar amount."This year's statements will give residents the opportunity to opt-in for digital statements next year.

Barton Co. Treasurer: Sending out tax statements no small task

11/20 BOOKED: Jason Bitter on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, Driving Under the Influence, and Reckless Driving, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Blake Peters on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hr OR.

BOOKED: Maribel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Illegal Lane Change, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Misty Adams on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Daniel Rios-Trevinos on Barton County District Court case for No Vehicle Registration and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: James Skinner on Barton County District Court cases, after time served.

RELEASED: Shaminy Clone on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

RELEASED:&nbsp;Lavenia White on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

RELEASED: William Newman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, Domestic Battery, and Assault, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jason Bitter on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, Driving Under the Influence, and Reckless Driving, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Blake Peters on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Maribel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Illegal Lane Change, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Misty Adams on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/20 BOOKED: Jason Bitter on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, Driving Under the Influence, and Reckless Driving, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Blake Peters on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 18-hr OR.BOOKED: Maribel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Illegal Lane Change, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Misty Adams on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Daniel Rios-Trevinos on Barton County District Court case for No Vehicle Registration and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: James Skinner on Barton County District Court cases, after time served.RELEASED: Shaminy Clone on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED:&nbsp;Lavenia White on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: William Newman on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, Domestic Battery, and Assault, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jason Bitter on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, Driving Under the Influence, and Reckless Driving, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Blake Peters on Ellinwood Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Maribel Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Illegal Lane Change, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Misty Adams on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (11/20)

Wildlife experts estimated there were some 200,000 geese using Cheyenne Bottoms last Friday. That makes the fall migration a perfect time for the Great Bend Public Library to roll out its new adventure packs. Circulation Manager Lisa Zier said the library has four of the packs available for checkout.

"The original adventure pack was a gift from the Audobon of Kansas," she said. "It's a very nice backpack. Each backpack contains one adult set of binoculars, two child-sized pairs of binoculars, and three different field guides."

Audobon of Kansas gifted the four sets that include field guides for identifying birds, butterflies, and phases of the moon, but library staff has built an even better adventure pack.

"We got information from Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira, and a few other places in the area and we put together maps, more field guides, bird lists," Zier said. "There's a birding bingo in there. There's all kinds of stuff."

The adventure packs may be checked out by anyone with a Great Bend Public Library card in good standing. The packs have a two-week checkout period.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700514243679.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Public Library Circulation Manager Lisa Zier and staff have added plenty of items to adventure packs donated by Audobon of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Public Library Circulation Manager Lisa Zier and staff have added plenty of items to adventure packs donated by Audobon of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWildlife experts estimated there were some 200,000 geese using Cheyenne Bottoms last Friday. That makes the fall migration a perfect time for the Great Bend Public Library to roll out its new adventure packs. Circulation Manager Lisa Zier said the library has four of the packs available for checkout."The original adventure pack was a gift from the Audobon of Kansas," she said. "It's a very nice backpack. Each backpack contains one adult set of binoculars, two child-sized pairs of binoculars, and three different field guides."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700514320155.jpeg" alt="Each adventure pack contains binoculars for adults and children as well as various field guides and maps." />
 <figcaption>Each adventure pack contains binoculars for adults and children as well as various field guides and maps.</figcaption>
 </figure>Audobon of Kansas gifted the four sets that include field guides for identifying birds, butterflies, and phases of the moon, but library staff has built an even better adventure pack."We got information from Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira, and a few other places in the area and we put together maps, more field guides, bird lists," Zier said. "There's a birding bingo in there. There's all kinds of stuff."The adventure packs may be checked out by anyone with a Great Bend Public Library card in good standing. The packs have a two-week checkout period.

New adventure packs available for checkout at Great Bend library

Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy, with a north wind 23 to 28 mph decreasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 41 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 25. North-northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 62. West wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 31. South wind 7 to 10 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight.

Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 53. East-northeast wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Friday A 20-percent chance of snow after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20.

Saturday A 30-percent chance of snow, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 34.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of snow before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 16.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 42.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 18.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 45.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Breezy, with a north wind 23 to 28 mph decreasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 41 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 25. North-northwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 62. West wind 6 to 11 mph becoming south-southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 31. South wind 7 to 10 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight.Thanksgiving Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 53. East-northeast wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26.Friday A 20-percent chance of snow after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20.Saturday A 30-percent chance of snow, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 34.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of snow before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 16.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 42.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 18.Monday Sunny, with a high near 45.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The City of Great Bend Wastewater Treatment Facility processes more than
one million gallons a day of domestic and industrial wastewater. Not often
thought of, the wastewater plays a crucial role in a city’s operation. 

Great
Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said wastewater operators noticed last
Thursday that the processing building was not receiving waste. Staff decided to
vacuum out the Return Activated Sludge (RAS) box, a concrete container that collects
sludge and returns it to the plant to keep the system healthy.


"We they started vacuuming that out on Saturday, they discovered there was about four feet of solid sludge in the bottom of that," said Cauley. "That's what ended up being our problem. We vacuumed that out, and now we're back to normal. We're getting our solids back to our process plant."

The treatment process allows the recycled wastewater to be returned to the
Arkansas River without harm to the aquatic life or the environment. Cauley was
not fully positive what caused the issue but was pleased the operators were
able to identify the problem.


"One of our operators who has worked for us for about 10 years said he's never seen the RAS completely drained or emptied," said Cauley. "Our guess is that a silting process is maybe what caused it. We'll keep an eye on it. We know what to do in the future."

The Great Bend Wastewater Treatment Facility was first built in 1954 with a few
major upgrades since the opening. Great Bend City Administrator Brandon
Anderson informed the council it might be time to perform a comprehensive study
on the city’s wastewater system to evaluate its condition.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700538633748.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend Wastewater Treatment Facility processes more than
one million gallons a day of domestic and industrial wastewater. Not often
thought of, the wastewater plays a crucial role in a city’s operation. Great
Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said wastewater operators noticed last
Thursday that the processing building was not receiving waste. Staff decided to
vacuum out the Return Activated Sludge (RAS) box, a concrete container that collects
sludge and returns it to the plant to keep the system healthy.
"We they started vacuuming that out on Saturday, they discovered there was about four feet of solid sludge in the bottom of that," said Cauley. "That's what ended up being our problem. We vacuumed that out, and now we're back to normal. We're getting our solids back to our process plant."The treatment process allows the recycled wastewater to be returned to the
Arkansas River without harm to the aquatic life or the environment. Cauley was
not fully positive what caused the issue but was pleased the operators were
able to identify the problem.
"One of our operators who has worked for us for about 10 years said he's never seen the RAS completely drained or emptied," said Cauley. "Our guess is that a silting process is maybe what caused it. We'll keep an eye on it. We know what to do in the future."The Great Bend Wastewater Treatment Facility was first built in 1954 with a few
major upgrades since the opening. Great Bend City Administrator Brandon
Anderson informed the council it might be time to perform a comprehensive study
on the city’s wastewater system to evaluate its condition.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend staff able to overcome wastewater facility problem

News From The Oil Patch, Nov. 20 John P. Tretbar

Government reports were delayed last week because of a systems upgrade at the Energy Information Administration. But the record-setting continued. Production in the week through November 3 reached 13,236,000 barrels per day, the highest weekly average ever. Output in the following week, the week through November 10, was down slightly but still high enough to tie for second-best ever, topping 13.2 million barrels per day for the sixth week in a row.

EIA reported the biggest two-week increase in crude-oil inventories in recent memory. As of November 10th stockpiles were a fraction above 430 million barrels. That's up 3.6 million barrels from last week, which was more than 13 million barrels above the week before. Stockpiles remain about two percent below the five-year seasonal average.

Crude-oil Imports last week dropped to six-point-four (6.4) million barrels per day. The four week average is more than three percent higher than the same four weeks a year ago.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes showed 618 active drilling rigs Friday, up six oil rigs while the gas rig count dropped by four. Colorado, New Mexico and North Dakota were each up two rigs from last week.

The Kansas Rig Count is up eight percent from a week ago, up more than two percent from a month ago, but down 25 percent from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active rigs in eastern Kansas, up one, and 22 west of Wichita, which is up two from last week. Drilling was underway or about to start on three leases in Barton County Friday.

Kansas regulators okayed 31 permits for drilling at new locations last week. So far this year that's 1,171 new permits, down 20% from a year ago.&nbsp; There are 14 new drilling locations in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Russell County.

Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 40 new well completions for the week. That's 1,525 so far this year, up 105 wells over last year at this time. Out of 25 completions west of Wichita, operators completed three wells in Barton County and one in Ellis County.

The west’s sanctions on Russian oil exports are failing to deprive the Kremlin of revenue to fund its war in Ukraine, meaning the measures are not succeeding in one of their principal objectives. A study cited by Bloomberg showed that nearly ALL seaborne shipments were for oil priced over the $60 per barrel cap. Government data show revenues from petrodollars nearly doubled between April and October, to more than $13 billion last month.

Western allies are ramping up pressure on the shippers, and the ships, used to violate the sanctions. &nbsp; The European Union has tasked Denmark with scrutinizing the so-called "ghost ships" Moscow uses to transport crude oil while avoiding Western price caps. According to a Bloomberg report, Russia sold 99% of its crude above the West's price cap of $60 a barrel last month. The Financial Times reported that Denmark will be tasked with inspecting and potentially blocking Russian ships that sail through the Danish straits. Russia sends the equivalent of two million barrels of oil through the straits each day. That's 60% of its total seaborne crude exports.&nbsp; The U.S. announced penalties against three companies, and three ships were designated "blocked property."

A Reuters report says the EU wants to ban the sale of crude-oil tankers. The measure would outlaw the sale or use in Russia of tankers to haul crude oil. The new sanctions also include efforts to block access to Russia's diamond industry. The US imposed sanctions against three companies involved in transporting sanctioned crude at prices below the cap. Three ships were designated "blocked property."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News From The Oil Patch, Nov. 20 John P. TretbarGovernment reports were delayed last week because of a systems upgrade at the Energy Information Administration. But the record-setting continued. Production in the week through November 3 reached 13,236,000 barrels per day, the highest weekly average ever. Output in the following week, the week through November 10, was down slightly but still high enough to tie for second-best ever, topping 13.2 million barrels per day for the sixth week in a row.EIA reported the biggest two-week increase in crude-oil inventories in recent memory. As of November 10th stockpiles were a fraction above 430 million barrels. That's up 3.6 million barrels from last week, which was more than 13 million barrels above the week before. Stockpiles remain about two percent below the five-year seasonal average.Crude-oil Imports last week dropped to six-point-four (6.4) million barrels per day. The four week average is more than three percent higher than the same four weeks a year ago.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes showed 618 active drilling rigs Friday, up six oil rigs while the gas rig count dropped by four. Colorado, New Mexico and North Dakota were each up two rigs from last week.The Kansas Rig Count is up eight percent from a week ago, up more than two percent from a month ago, but down 25 percent from last year at this time. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 17 active rigs in eastern Kansas, up one, and 22 west of Wichita, which is up two from last week. Drilling was underway or about to start on three leases in Barton County Friday.Kansas regulators okayed 31 permits for drilling at new locations last week. So far this year that's 1,171 new permits, down 20% from a year ago.&nbsp; There are 14 new drilling locations in Western Kansas, including two in Barton County and two in Russell County.Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 40 new well completions for the week. That's 1,525 so far this year, up 105 wells over last year at this time. Out of 25 completions west of Wichita, operators completed three wells in Barton County and one in Ellis County.The west’s sanctions on Russian oil exports are failing to deprive the Kremlin of revenue to fund its war in Ukraine, meaning the measures are not succeeding in one of their principal objectives. A study cited by Bloomberg showed that nearly ALL seaborne shipments were for oil priced over the $60 per barrel cap. Government data show revenues from petrodollars nearly doubled between April and October, to more than $13 billion last month.Western allies are ramping up pressure on the shippers, and the ships, used to violate the sanctions. &nbsp; The European Union has tasked Denmark with scrutinizing the so-called "ghost ships" Moscow uses to transport crude oil while avoiding Western price caps. According to a Bloomberg report, Russia sold 99% of its crude above the West's price cap of $60 a barrel last month. The Financial Times reported that Denmark will be tasked with inspecting and potentially blocking Russian ships that sail through the Danish straits. Russia sends the equivalent of two million barrels of oil through the straits each day. That's 60% of its total seaborne crude exports.&nbsp; The U.S. announced penalties against three companies, and three ships were designated "blocked property."A Reuters report says the EU wants to ban the sale of crude-oil tankers. The measure would outlaw the sale or use in Russia of tankers to haul crude oil. The new sanctions also include efforts to block access to Russia's diamond industry. The US imposed sanctions against three companies involved in transporting sanctioned crude at prices below the cap. Three ships were designated "blocked property."&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Targeting the shippers and ships

Do your children or grandchildren want to see Santa and take a ride in his sleigh? They can! Do you want to take them on a horse-drawn wagon-ride? You can! Do you want to do some fun and relaxed Christmas shopping? You can! You can enjoy all of that and more in just one day at the annual Bushton Pride Committee’s Santa’s Bazaar in Bushton on Saturday, Dec. 2.

The day’s festivities, which have been expanded this year, will feature a virtual reality Santa’s sleigh ride and an appearance by Santa, plus horse-drawn wagon rides, an arts and crafts show with over 25 vendors, a soup contest, face painting, a raffle, a children’s activity corner, a do-it-yourself Christmas photo booth, and concessions.

With more activities than ever before, the event will take place in two locations – the Bushton Community Center and the Bushton Plaza (the former Central Plains Middle School). The event’s activities will run at various times between 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Kicking off the day’s events will be the magical virtual reality ride in Santa’s sleigh, sure to get one and all in the Christmas spirit. Rides will be available, free of charge, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Bushton Plaza.

Arts and crafts vendors will include unique handmade items such as homemade baked goods, handmade soap, homemade home décor and jewelry, handcrafted wood products, books, and puzzles as well as other new and exciting items. The arts and crafts booths will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at both locations.

The Christmas Kids Corner will run from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Plaza and will feature cookie decorating and crafting activities.

Horse-drawn wagon rides will be available from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., running between the Plaza and the Community Center.

Santa Claus will be making his appearance and handing out goodie sacks from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Plaza.

The soup contest is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center, with three categories – chili, chicken noodle and “other.” A soup tasting kit can be purchased for $5.00.

The Bazaar’s raffle, with over 75 prizes, will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center. Tickets will be available for purchase at both venues.

There will be face painting and a do-it-yourself Christmas photo booth at the Plaza throughout the day and Crazy Wolf Coffee of Ellinwood will be at the Plaza from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. offering specialty coffees.

In addition, Pride will be selling t-shirts, and concessions, provided by the Traveling Oilers, will be available throughout the day at the Community Center.

Sponsorship for the day’s events has been provided by ONEOK, Midwest Energy, Quivira Federal Bank, Richard Thompson/Waddell &amp; Reed, Ellco Insurance Services, Great Plains Agency, Habiger Farms &amp; Harvesting, and T-Bird Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700498503993.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Do your children or grandchildren want to see Santa and take a ride in his sleigh? They can! Do you want to take them on a horse-drawn wagon-ride? You can! Do you want to do some fun and relaxed Christmas shopping? You can! You can enjoy all of that and more in just one day at the annual Bushton Pride Committee’s Santa’s Bazaar in Bushton on Saturday, Dec. 2.The day’s festivities, which have been expanded this year, will feature a virtual reality Santa’s sleigh ride and an appearance by Santa, plus horse-drawn wagon rides, an arts and crafts show with over 25 vendors, a soup contest, face painting, a raffle, a children’s activity corner, a do-it-yourself Christmas photo booth, and concessions.With more activities than ever before, the event will take place in two locations – the Bushton Community Center and the Bushton Plaza (the former Central Plains Middle School). The event’s activities will run at various times between 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.Kicking off the day’s events will be the magical virtual reality ride in Santa’s sleigh, sure to get one and all in the Christmas spirit. Rides will be available, free of charge, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Bushton Plaza.Arts and crafts vendors will include unique handmade items such as homemade baked goods, handmade soap, homemade home décor and jewelry, handcrafted wood products, books, and puzzles as well as other new and exciting items. The arts and crafts booths will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at both locations.The Christmas Kids Corner will run from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Plaza and will feature cookie decorating and crafting activities.Horse-drawn wagon rides will be available from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., running between the Plaza and the Community Center.Santa Claus will be making his appearance and handing out goodie sacks from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the Plaza.The soup contest is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center, with three categories – chili, chicken noodle and “other.” A soup tasting kit can be purchased for $5.00.The Bazaar’s raffle, with over 75 prizes, will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the Community Center. Tickets will be available for purchase at both venues.There will be face painting and a do-it-yourself Christmas photo booth at the Plaza throughout the day and Crazy Wolf Coffee of Ellinwood will be at the Plaza from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. offering specialty coffees.In addition, Pride will be selling t-shirts, and concessions, provided by the Traveling Oilers, will be available throughout the day at the Community Center.Sponsorship for the day’s events has been provided by ONEOK, Midwest Energy, Quivira Federal Bank, Richard Thompson/Waddell &amp; Reed, Ellco Insurance Services, Great Plains Agency, Habiger Farms &amp; Harvesting, and T-Bird Center.

Bushton Pride Committee hosting Santa's Bazaar Dec. 2

The City of Great Bend is urging residents to avoid pouring grease, oils
and fats down the drain, as they can cause serious clogs in the sewer system.
These substances can solidify and stick to the pipes, reducing the flow of
wastewater and creating backups. 

Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley
said with the Thanksgiving cooking traditions this week, it’s time for a good
reminder.


"A lot of people, after they get done cooking and they're ready to clean their dishes, they end up pouring their grease down the drain," said Cauley. "That can actually affect them first before it affects the city."

The city also advises not to flush wipes, as they do not break down easily and
can also block the sewers.

"They should soak that grease up with a paper towel or put it in another container to be put in the trash," Cauley added.

The city asks residents to dispose of grease, oil,
fats and wipes in the trash instead of the drain. Not only does that help keep
the city’s system functioning properly, it also protects your private sewer
system.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend is urging residents to avoid pouring grease, oils
and fats down the drain, as they can cause serious clogs in the sewer system.
These substances can solidify and stick to the pipes, reducing the flow of
wastewater and creating backups. Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley
said with the Thanksgiving cooking traditions this week, it’s time for a good
reminder.
"A lot of people, after they get done cooking and they're ready to clean their dishes, they end up pouring their grease down the drain," said Cauley. "That can actually affect them first before it affects the city."The city also advises not to flush wipes, as they do not break down easily and
can also block the sewers."They should soak that grease up with a paper towel or put it in another container to be put in the trash," Cauley added.The city asks residents to dispose of grease, oil,
fats and wipes in the trash instead of the drain. Not only does that help keep
the city’s system functioning properly, it also protects your private sewer
system.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

City of Great Bend: Prevent holiday drain clogs

MPIRE Realty Group and Kansas Trophy Experience are excited to announce their collaboration with USD 428 to bring the gift of fresh, local meat to the tables of families in the community this holiday season. Thanks to the generosity of these partners, deer meat harvested through hunting experiences will be processed by B&amp;B Quality Meats in Larned, KS and then donated to families within the USD 428 school district.

The first distribution date is scheduled for Monday, November 20th, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. (while supplies last) on the North side of Great Bend High School. Families are asked to drive East on 21st Street to receive their frozen, 1lb packages of ground deer/pork meat.

“We have about 200 pounds ready to go,” said Trevor Olsen, owner and guide with Kansas Trophy Experience, “and it’s still early in the deer season.”

Olsen has been a hunting guide for over 13 years, facilitating wild game donations throughout that time for out-of-state hunters.

“Trophies to Tables gives us a specific destination and a way to deliver the meat to those who need it and will use it,” said Olsen.

Rachel Thexton, a counselor at Great Bend High School, expressed her gratitude, stating, "This is a blessing that came at the right time. The holidays can be hard for some families, and we appreciate the generous people at MPIRE Realty and Kansas Trophy Experience who have stepped up to help."

Thexton, who also serves as a core volunteer for Great Bend High School's Panther Pantry and Hygiene Closet – a resource providing food and personal care items to students in need – underscores the positive impact of such community-driven initiatives.

For more information about Trophies to the Table, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700497414314.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MPIRE Realty Group and Kansas Trophy Experience are excited to announce their collaboration with USD 428 to bring the gift of fresh, local meat to the tables of families in the community this holiday season. Thanks to the generosity of these partners, deer meat harvested through hunting experiences will be processed by B&amp;B Quality Meats in Larned, KS and then donated to families within the USD 428 school district.The first distribution date is scheduled for Monday, November 20th, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. (while supplies last) on the North side of Great Bend High School. Families are asked to drive East on 21st Street to receive their frozen, 1lb packages of ground deer/pork meat.“We have about 200 pounds ready to go,” said Trevor Olsen, owner and guide with Kansas Trophy Experience, “and it’s still early in the deer season.”Olsen has been a hunting guide for over 13 years, facilitating wild game donations throughout that time for out-of-state hunters.“Trophies to Tables gives us a specific destination and a way to deliver the meat to those who need it and will use it,” said Olsen.Rachel Thexton, a counselor at Great Bend High School, expressed her gratitude, stating, "This is a blessing that came at the right time. The holidays can be hard for some families, and we appreciate the generous people at MPIRE Realty and Kansas Trophy Experience who have stepped up to help."Thexton, who also serves as a core volunteer for Great Bend High School's Panther Pantry and Hygiene Closet – a resource providing food and personal care items to students in need – underscores the positive impact of such community-driven initiatives.For more information about Trophies to the Table, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

Providing harvested meat to families in Great Bend school district

The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline can personally answer your food safety questions on weekdays year-round.

The Hotline receives more than 50,000 calls yearly. This toll-free telephone service, which began July 1, 1985, helps prevent foodborne illness by answering questions about the safe storage, handling, and preparation of meat, poultry, and egg products.

Food Safety Questions? Call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline. If you have questions about meat, poultry, or egg products, call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline toll fee at 1-888-674-6854. The Hotline is open year-round Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm Eastern time and is available in English or Spanish. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Check out the FSIS Web site at www.fsis.usda.gov. Send email questions to MPHotline@usda.gov.

The Hotline is staffed by food safety specialists with backgrounds in home economics, nutrition, and food technology.

The majority of calls come from consumers regarding how to properly handle their food, including food safety during power outages, food manufacturer recalls, foodborne illnesses, and the inspection of meat, poultry, and egg products.

Hotline Answers Millions of Calls! The Hotline has answered over 2 million calls as part of USDA's consumer food safety education efforts. Often the first question callers ask is, "Are you a real person?" The Hotline is one of the rare services where a live person answers callers individually specific questions one-on-one.

In the more than 35 years of operation, callers have asked the Hotline increasingly more sophisticated questions. Now they frequently know the names of bacteria many people had never heard of 10 or 20 years ago.

From novice cooks wondering how long to safely roast a chicken to more experienced food handlers asking about additives, residues, and foodborne bacteria. Hotline food safety specialists have heard it all—2 million times over.

Hotline Services Available in Spanish Beginning in 2002, the toll-free Hotline extended its service to callers whose first language is Spanish. By touching the appropriate number at the prompt, callers will be connected to a Spanish-speaking food safety specialist who can answer their questions. Callers may also listen to more than 50 food safety messages recorded in Spanish, 24 hours a day.

The Hotline is open on Thanksgiving Day from 7:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central Time and 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p. m., Eastern Time, but closed on other Federal government holidays.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline can personally answer your food safety questions on weekdays year-round.The Hotline receives more than 50,000 calls yearly. This toll-free telephone service, which began July 1, 1985, helps prevent foodborne illness by answering questions about the safe storage, handling, and preparation of meat, poultry, and egg products.Food Safety Questions? Call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline. If you have questions about meat, poultry, or egg products, call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline toll fee at 1-888-674-6854. The Hotline is open year-round Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm Eastern time and is available in English or Spanish. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Check out the FSIS Web site at www.fsis.usda.gov. Send email questions to MPHotline@usda.gov.The Hotline is staffed by food safety specialists with backgrounds in home economics, nutrition, and food technology.The majority of calls come from consumers regarding how to properly handle their food, including food safety during power outages, food manufacturer recalls, foodborne illnesses, and the inspection of meat, poultry, and egg products.Hotline Answers Millions of Calls! The Hotline has answered over 2 million calls as part of USDA's consumer food safety education efforts. Often the first question callers ask is, "Are you a real person?" The Hotline is one of the rare services where a live person answers callers individually specific questions one-on-one.In the more than 35 years of operation, callers have asked the Hotline increasingly more sophisticated questions. Now they frequently know the names of bacteria many people had never heard of 10 or 20 years ago.From novice cooks wondering how long to safely roast a chicken to more experienced food handlers asking about additives, residues, and foodborne bacteria. Hotline food safety specialists have heard it all—2 million times over.Hotline Services Available in Spanish Beginning in 2002, the toll-free Hotline extended its service to callers whose first language is Spanish. By touching the appropriate number at the prompt, callers will be connected to a Spanish-speaking food safety specialist who can answer their questions. Callers may also listen to more than 50 food safety messages recorded in Spanish, 24 hours a day.The Hotline is open on Thanksgiving Day from 7:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central Time and 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p. m., Eastern Time, but closed on other Federal government holidays.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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